The Wollongong star was a key member of the gold-medal team in Rio, however it has been a rocky five years since.

New Zealand have blitzed their rivals, using the 2016 defeat as motivation to go one better in Japan.

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Tonegato knows Australia must improve on recent showings, but is confident the side has found form.

"I'm confident with the team we've got," Tonegato said. "We've been using all our lead-up games as a stepping stone to Tokyo. I'm confident we'll be at our best and have trust in each other.

"Rio taught us so much, how to deal with pressure and rely on our teammates. I hope when the going gets a bit tougher we can handle it and be there to support each other."

Australia's campaign kicks off on Thursday with clashes against Japan and China.

While New Zealand are short-priced favourites, they are not the only challenger for gold.

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The USA, Canada and France will be in the mix, with Australia to take on America in their final group match on Friday.

"We can't take anyone in our pool lightly," Tonegato said. "For Japan it's their home tournament, so they'll be up and passionate and the USA have been getting better and better every year.

"It's pretty important we win our group, it dictates our quarter-final and the knockout path. We really want to play well in our pool, finish in top position and have a good shot at the medals."

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